The prevalence of violence towards the elderly: a critical review of the literature

Abstract

The studies on the prevalence of violence towards the elderly in a family context that have been conducted in the last thirty years, especially in Europe and Anglo-Saxon countries, are not sufficiently elucidative. This is due to shortcomings in both the definition of their theoretical models and their operative concepts. The authors of this article have systematically reviewed the literature and identified a diversity of definitions and research designs, which has an inevitable impact in terms of varying estimates. The European public perception of this problem is also at odds with the low figures contained in this type of estimate. The authors offer somethoughts about the underlying reasons for these representations, and critique the estimates made in population-based prevalence studies.

Elder abuse: A Mini Review

“…9 In addition, there is no consensus on the theme or evidence of the risk factors screening for the occurrence of elder abuse concerning the community. 7,9,10 Finally, and due to the factors previously explored, there is also a lack of structured networks, (national, international and multi professional) for the screening of elder abuse, and a lack of complaint by the victims or professionals, this way leading to an underreporting of those cases. [8][9][10] For this reason, it is urgent to raise awareness and teach healthcare professionals on screening of possible situations of elder abuse, using screening questionnaires or scales and making a systematic and holistic evaluation of the elderly person who has risk factors for abuse.…”

“…7 The consequences of this abuse can be especially serious, because the elder population is "physically weaker and more vulnerable than younger adults, their bones are more brittle and convalescence takes longer. Even a relatively minor injury can cause serious and permanent damage".…”

“…For example, Dong,6 concluded in his systematic review that in North and South America, the prevalence of elder abuse was 10%; in Europe, ranged from 2.2%, in Ireland to 24,25%, in Croatia; and on the African continent, the prevalence ranged from 30% to 43.7%. In the systematic review conducted by Santos et al, 7 the overall prevalence rates of elder abuse, founded in population-based studies, ranged from 0.8% (in Spain) to 18.4% (in Israel).…”

Detection and Intervention Strategies by Primary Health Care Professionals in Suspected Elder Abuse

“…2,6 The WHO's adopted elder abuse definition is 'Elder abuse is a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person. 1,7 Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, financial or neglect (intentional or not), and can occur isolated or in association. 1,[5][6][7] The assessment of the actual prevalence rate has proven to be a challenge, but some international studies estimate it ranging between 1% and 35% depending on definitions, survey or sample methods.…”

“…1,7 Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, financial or neglect (intentional or not), and can occur isolated or in association. 1,[5][6][7] The assessment of the actual prevalence rate has proven to be a challenge, but some international studies estimate it ranging between 1% and 35% depending on definitions, survey or sample methods.…”